Colt Government Model MKIV Series ’70 .45 ACP 5″ 1911 Pistol 1973
SOLD FOR: $1576
LSB#: 211016JL07
Make: Colt
Model: 1911, Mark IV Series ‘70, Government Model
Serial#: 70G58973
Year of Manufacture: 1973 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber/Gauge: .45 ACP
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Single Action Pistol with Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “COLT’S MK IV/SERIES ‘70 / GOVERNMENT MODEL / .45 AUTOMATIC CALIBER”, and features an adjacent Rampant Colt logo. The right side of the slide is marked “COLT’S GOVERNMENT MODEL”. The right side of the frame is marked “COLT PT.F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” and features the serial number “70G58973”. The left side of the trigger guard is marked “3” and with the “VP” proof while the right side is marked “S”. The top of the chamber is marked “COLT .45 AUTO / MK.IV/SERIES ’70”.
Barrel Length: 5”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a blade with a ramped serrated rear face that is fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a square notch that is dovetailed to the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are two-piece smooth wood with silver Colt medallions. There are a few little spots of discoloration on the left panel above the medallion. There is some light handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no in the bore.
Overall Condition: The pistol retains about 95% of its finish. There is a takedown arc on the frame below the lever, dust cover, and slide. The matte portions have a few little rubs. The slide has some operational wear in front of the dust cover. The sides of the trigger guard have some little spots of dark discoloration. Some of the edges have light thinning. The markings are clear. The grip screws are lightly worn. Overall this pistol is in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, it may need a thorough cleaning to meet your maintenance standards.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: One 7-round Colt magazine is included.
Our Assessment: Colt’s 1911 served the United States military through two World Wars and several other conflicts, is still in use by some units today, and has become popular with law enforcement, competitors, and recreational shooters across the nation. The design has seen some updates including a firing-pin block safety, higher profile sights, and more ergonomic grips, but the basic design and fantastic trigger remain the same after more than a century. Due to its popularity and long life, the 1911 has also been a popular choice for custom pistols, with a wide variety of sights, barrels, parts, and popular modifications. This example is a Commercial Government Model made during a period when some of their finest work was produced. The factory was full of WWII vets in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s and the guns showed the dedication and work ethic of this generation. This is a Colt MK IV Series ’70 Government Model from 1973. The descendent of the original Model of 1911, it has updates of the 1911-A1 as well as a collet-style bushing to improve accuracy. This one looks great and has some light wear, it will make a great shooter but is also a nice old pony to pass down through the generations. Please see our photos and good luck!